Japan pledges financial aid to Jordan

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has met Jordan's King Abdullah. Abe showed respect to Jordan for accepting many refugees from the Syrian civil war and pledged financial aid to the Middle Eastern nation, according to NHK world.

The 2 leaders held talks in Tokyo on Thursday.

Abe said Jordan has been hosting a large number of Syrian refugees and doing everything it can to deal with terrorism and violent extremism.

He added that Japan will firmly support Jordan, which plays a crucial role as a cornerstone for stability in the Middle East.

After the meeting, the 2 leaders held a joint news conference.

Abe announced about 30 billion yen, or some 286 million dollars, in low-interest loans to help Jordan improve its counterterrorism efforts and infrastructure.

King Abdullah voiced gratitude for Japan's assistance. He said the refugee issue is an unprecedented humanitarian crisis that puts a major strain on Jordan's national budget.

King Abdullah added that on behalf of Jordanians, he expresses heartfelt condolences to Japan's Emperor, Imperial family, and people on the death of Prince Mikasa.

Both nations also signed a memorandum on advancing defense cooperation, including personnel exchanges.